Fireplace Conversions in Spokane, WA | Gas, Electric & Wood System Upgrades
Spokane Fireplace And Patio Pros specializes in fireplace conversions for commercial and residential properties throughout Spokane, transforming outdated or inefficient hearth systems into modern, code-compliant appliances without the cost and disruption of a full rebuild. Whether you are switching from a wood-burning unit to a gas insert, upgrading an open-combustion system to a sealed-combustion appliance, or replacing an old masonry firebox with a direct-vent gas or electric insert, our licensed crew handles every phase from permit acquisition through final inspection.
Every conversion starts with a thorough flue and chimney liner assessment to identify required modifications before any equipment is ordered, eliminating costly surprises mid-project. We work with natural gas and propane fuel sources, spec millivolt and smart thermostat control systems, and install zero-clearance insert units from trusted brands like Napoleon, Regency, and Valor to match your heating output goals and interior aesthetic. Damper sealing, firebox repointing, and surround material upgrades are folded into the same scope when needed, giving commercial and residential clients a single point of accountability and a finished conversion that performs efficiently from the first fire.
Spokane Fireplace And Patio Pros provides fireplace conversions in Spokane, WA and surrounding areas like Liberty Lake, Rathdrum, and Hayden.
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Our Fireplace Conversion Services
Gas Fireplace Conversions
Direct-vent and millivolt gas systems are installed to replace open wood-burning fireplaces or outdated vented gas logs. Direct-vent units use sealed combustion and a coaxial vent, reducing indoor drafts and increasing heating efficiency for both residential and commercial spaces. Burners and logs are sized to match the existing firebox and heat load, with a code-compliant gas line and shutoff installed and licensed plumber coordination handled when required. Manual, millivolt, and electronic ignition options are available so clients can choose between reliability and convenience based on their priorities.
Electric Fireplace Upgrades
Masonry or metal fireboxes are retrofitted with high-output electric inserts and wall-mounted units for quick, low-permit installation with no combustion concerns and no venting requirements. The result is precise temperature control that suits office suites, retail storefronts, and rental units equally well. Models are selected for realistic flame effects, remote controls, and thermostatic or programmable timers that balance ambiance with energy use. Commercial installations can include hardwired units and tamper-resistant controls to meet facility requirements.
Wood-Burning to Modern Fireplace Transformations
Traditional wood fireplaces are converted to high-efficiency gas inserts or sealed wood-burning inserts wherever code and flue condition allow. Gas inserts deliver controlled heat output with lower particulate emissions, while modern wood inserts improve draft and burn efficiency for properties that prefer solid fuel. Every conversion begins with a flue inspection and chimney sweep to assess liner condition and clearances, followed by a recommendation on insert size and venting approach based on structural limitations and desired efficiency.
Custom Outdoor Fireplace Conversions
Outdoor masonry and prefabricated fireplaces are converted to propane or natural-gas systems tailored for patios, restaurants, and multi-family courtyards. Weatherproofing, burner protection, and ease of ignition are the priorities on every outdoor conversion, with stainless-steel burners, sealed control housings, and corrosion-resistant logs or media specified for exterior exposure. Commercial patio installations can include multi-switch zones, timer controls, and lockable panels to meet operational requirements.
Our Process for Fireplace Conversions
Personalized Consultation
A focused conversation opens every project, covering goals, budget, and site constraints including whether the priority is a vented gas insert, direct-vent unit, ventless gas conversion, or an electric or fireglass solution. Usage patterns, aesthetics, and any existing chimney or flue issues are discussed so every recommendation matches real needs rather than assumptions. Permit requirements, timeline expectations, and preliminary pricing ranges are all clarified upfront so there are no surprises before work begins.
On-Site Assessment
A trained technician visits to inspect the fireplace, chimney, hearth dimensions, and surrounding structure in detail. Clearances are measured, the damper and flue condition are checked, combustible materials are verified, and existing ventilation is tested to determine which conversion options are safe and feasible. Photos are documented and draft and carbon monoxide baseline readings are taken where applicable to inform the design and satisfy local code and insurance requirements.
Design and Material Selection
System options are presented with precise specifications covering BTU output, venting type, efficiency ratings, and required clearances. Finish selections including surround materials, glass media, and trim are guided to integrate with the interior and meet fireproofing needs for commercial spaces. A full list of required parts and any structural or chimney modifications is provided alongside an itemized estimate covering equipment, labor, permits, and disposal.
Professional Installation
Installation is scheduled with certified gas and HVAC technicians and licensed electricians as needed to ensure full code compliance throughout. The work typically covers removing or sizing the existing firebox, installing the insert or appliance, running and sealing vents, and connecting gas or electrical lines with pressure and leak testing completed before sign-off. The work area is isolated, flooring and furnishings are protected, and inspections with local authorities are
coordinated whenever permits require it.
Quality Assurance and Inspection
Functional checks following installation cover burner ignition cycles, thermostat response, vent pressures, and exhaust temperatures. Combustion analysis and carbon monoxide testing are completed for gas systems, and airtight seals are confirmed on all direct-vent appliances. A checklist of completed work is produced, all clearances and labeling are verified against manufacturer and code standards, and any punch-list items are addressed immediately before the job is closed out.
Customer Walkthrough and Ongoing Support
A thorough walkthrough covers operation, control features, remote or smart-thermostat setup, and routine maintenance tasks such as cleaning glass and checking seals. Written care instructions, warranty paperwork, and service contact information are provided alongside recommended maintenance intervals based on usage and the differences between commercial and residential systems. Follow-up inspections and service plans are available to keep every system safe, efficient, and warranty-compliant over time.
Best Choice for Fireplace Conversions in Spokane, WA
Expert Technicians and Reliable Installation
Licensed gas fitters, certified HVAC technicians, and NFI-trained fireplace specialists with an average of over a decade of field experience handle every conversion. A site assessment precedes all work to verify clearances, venting capacity, and fuel supply compatibility before any materials are ordered. Spokane and Washington State codes for gas, electric, and venting systems are followed on every job, with permits pulled whenever required.
Custom Solutions for Every Property
Conversions are designed around the building's layout, occupancy type, and aesthetic goals rather than a one-size-fits-all approach. Commercial spaces receive solutions that balance heating load, ventilation requirements, and applicable fire-code restrictions, while residential projects prioritize comfort, noise control, and visual integration with mantels and surrounds. Options include converting wood-burning fireplaces to direct-vent gas, vent-free gas, electric inserts, or sealed combustion systems.
Focus on Energy Efficiency and Safety
Conversions are optimized to reduce heat loss up the chimney and improve overall HVAC performance throughout the property. Sealed combustion and direct-vent systems draw outside air for combustion, preserving indoor air quality and reducing unwanted drafts into conditioned spaces. Programmable controls and high-efficiency inserts lower fuel consumption and provide precise temperature control for both residential and commercial clients.
FAQs About Fireplace Conversions
How much does a fireplace conversion cost in Spokane for commercial and residential properties?
Fireplace conversions at Spokane Fireplace And Patio Pros typically range from $500 to $8,000 depending on the existing system, target fuel type, and scope of work involved. Converting a wood-burning unit to a gas insert with a new surround and gas line extension sits at the higher end. We provide firm quotes after an on-site evaluation.
Can a wood-burning fireplace be converted to gas or electric without replacing the entire unit?
In most cases, yes. A gas insert or electric insert can be fitted directly into an existing wood-burning firebox, preserving the original surround and mantel. Gas conversions require a dedicated gas line and approved venting, while electric conversions need only a nearby outlet. Both options give commercial and residential spaces a cleaner, lower-maintenance heating solution.
How long does a fireplace conversion take from start to finish?
Most electric fireplace conversions are completed in a single day. Gas insert conversions involving line installation, venting adjustments, and surround finishing typically take two to three days. More complex commercial conversions in restaurants, hotels, or office buildings with existing masonry systems and code compliance requirements may extend to four or five days including inspection sign-off.
Is a gas fireplace conversion more efficient than keeping a wood-burning system in Spokane's climate?
Yes, significantly. Gas fireplaces deliver consistent heat output with efficiency ratings up to 99 percent, compared to traditional wood-burning masonry units which lose much of their heat through the flue. For Spokane's cold winters, a gas conversion means faster heat response, lower fuel costs, and no need to store or haul firewood for commercial or residential properties.
Do you handle fireplace conversions for commercial properties like restaurants, hotels, and office buildings?
Yes, Spokane Fireplace And Patio Pros manages fireplace conversions for commercial and residential clients throughout the Spokane area. We convert wood-burning systems to gas or electric for restaurant dining rooms, hotel lobbies, office common areas, and retail spaces. Every commercial conversion is completed to IBC standards with proper permitting, licensed gas line work, and final inspection sign-off.